The Problem of Teaching about Evil

Evil is perhaps the most difficult aspect of human history and human nature to convey to students. That it exists is hard to argue, but how do we teach about it to high school students without evoking in them despair, blame, or cynicism? Can we talk about it in ways that inspire understanding, balance, and a will toward the good?
Eric Philpott offers an outstanding analysis of the difficulties of the subject and suggests approaches that I believe will be welcomed for their fruitfulness. In my opinion, this is “must read” material for high school teachers.